jyoti @ His Lotus Feet

I want to start with the first picture of the second newly elected Purodha Pramukha and President of Ananda Marga (AMPS), Ac. Vishvadevananda Avadhuta. He’s young, tall, and I must say dashing. He must be in the middle of 50’s. He replaces Rev. Ac. Shraddhananda Avadhuta who passed away on the 15^th of October, 2008 in Ranchi at the age of 92.

Fortunately, I was introduced to new PP when we visited Ranchi, the headquarters of AMPS. The only thing I remember during that brief encounter was his question, “how’s your trip?” I can’t remember my answer, I’m that nervous believe me. He’s on his padmasana on his bed as his cot while I’m on the floor staring at him. Although I don’t recall having met him or hearing his name before, my salutation and respect for him doesn’t diminish a bit. He has served as the Acting General Secretary of Ananda Marga since 2003; became a Sannyasi(monk) in 1972 ( btw, I was initiated the same year, too); and has served in different capacities including Mahasachiv of Ananda Marga Gurukul University at Ananda Nagar.

In his address after the announcement of his election as Purodha Pramukha, he encouraged all of us devotees and Acaryas to work in harmony and united to serve the suffering humanity. He reminded us the comprehensive, multi-demensional philosophy of Baba, Shrii Shrii Anandamurtijii as an antidote for deep problems faced by the world today. He emphasized our responsibilities to respond to challenges our humanity is facing in all walks of life.